Environmental Ethics for a Postcolonial World

by Deane W. Curtin

In a fluid narrative style, Environmental Ethics for a Postcolonial World links environmentalism with colonialism and makes the strong case, through well-documented examples, that rapid economic change has caused an environmental and population crisis. Curtin also offers a unique interpretation of familiar history with surprising conclusions about the relationship between colonial attitudes and environmentalism. Today, more than ever, globalization demands that the so-called third world not face their social and environmental issues alone. This book offers clear examples of environmental strategies for our new globalized culture and is not only ideal for courses in environmental ethics, globalization, and environmental politics; it offers students and general readers a practical guide for change.

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Deane Curtin is professor emeritus of philosophy at Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota.

Reviews

[Jordan]

Overall, it is a pretty solid account and argument for connecting social and environmental justice ethics, but it does get a bit repetitive. That said, I don't know how convincing it would be for someone who doesn't already sympathize with his arguments and perspectives. Further, even with his explicitly states agenda of remaining clear, concise, and jargon-free, his writing style instead comes across as a bit pedestrian or unsophisticated.

[Meg]

Good intro to how globalization and environmental philosophy are connected.

[Caroline]

a thought-provoking way to look at the environment and how our western views inform the way we treat nature in our own country and around the globe.

[Michelle]

Pretty thought provoking!